How does a tile leveling system work?

Are you an enthusiastic DIY enthusiast or a professional tiler and do you want to create perfectly flat tiled floors and walls? Then a leveling system is an indispensable tool for you. In this article we explain step by step how a leveling system works and how you can use it for placing tiles. Read on to discover all the tips & tricks of this handy tool!

What is a leveling system?

A leveling system is a tool used when installing tiles. The system consists of reusable clips and wedges that ensure a perfectly flat and even surface. There are different types of leveling systems. Not only clips and wedges but also caps and clips can be used for leveling floors. The system helps to prevent unevenness and minimize height differences between tiles, allowing you to achieve a professional-looking tile installation.

Step-by-step explanation: using a leveling system

Step 1: Preparation

Before you start laying tiles, make sure the surface is clean, level and free of dust and dirt. Also check that the tile adhesive is suitable for use with a leveling system.

Step 2: Placing the first tile

Apply a layer of tile adhesive to the substrate using a suitable adhesive comb . Do not only glue the substrate but also the back of the tile. Then place the first tile on the adhesive and press it firmly.

Step 3: Confirming the leveling system

Slide the clips under the edges of the first tile, at equal distances from each other. Then place the next tile and slide the wedges into the clips. Push them in using a leveling pliers. This will ensure that the tiles are held at the same height and prevent them from shifting while the adhesive dries.

Step 4: Placing the next tiles

Apply tile adhesive to the substrate and back of the tile. Then place the next tiles next to the first tile. Make sure the clips are between the tile joints. Repeat the process of attaching the clips and wedges for each tile.

Step 5: Removing the leveling system

Once the tile adhesive has almost completely dried, you can remove the leveling system. Use a rubber mallet to gently tap the wedges loose. Tap the clips in the direction of the joint. When tapping, the clips will break off perfectly at the base. Finally, remove the clips and any residue from the tile floor.

Tips & tricks when tiling

1. Ensure proper preparation: Ensure that the surface on which you are going to place the tiles is clean, level and free of dust and dirt before you start placing tiles. A level surface ensures that the levelling system works better.

2. Choose the Right Type of Leveling System: There are several types of leveling systems available on the market. Choose the system that best suits your tiling project, taking into account factors such as tile size, thickness, and desired end result.

3. Use the right amount of adhesive: Apply the tile adhesive evenly using a suitable adhesive comb. An even layer of adhesive ensures good adhesion and prevents the tiles from sliding when using the leveling system. Apply adhesive to both the back of the tile and the substrate. This ensures better adhesion.

4. Beware of excessive pressure: When fixing the wedges into the clips, it is important to be careful not to overdo the pressure. Too much tension can cause the tiles to break or the adhesive to squeeze out from under the tiles.

5. Check for flatness regularly: When laying the tiles, it is advisable to check regularly whether the tiles are flat using a spirit level. This will allow you to make any corrections before the adhesive has completely dried.

6. Allow Sufficient Drying Time: Make sure you allow sufficient drying time before removing the leveling system . Refer to the tile adhesive manufacturer's instructions for recommended drying time.

7. Reuse the Leveling System: A great advantage of leveling systems is that they are reusable. After removing the system, you can clean it and store it for future tiling projects, saving you money.

A leveling system is an essential tool for achieving perfectly level tile floors and walls. Using reusable clips and wedges, you can minimize height differences and achieve a professional finish. Follow the step-by-step instructions in this article to properly use, adjust, and remove the leveling system. By applying this technique, you are guaranteed to achieve impressive results on your tiling projects.